Phillip Creary / March 12, 2025
DC’s surprised everyone today with the announcement of “Batman #1” by the creative team of Matt Fraction and Jorge Jiménez.
A significant overhaul is coming to DC's "Batman" series. Under the direction of Fraction and Jiménez, with colorist Tomeu Morey and letterer Clayton Cowles, the comic is getting a fresh start with a new #1. This marks only the fourth time in 85 years that the "Batman" series has been renumbered. Readers can expect a modern Batman with a new blue and gray costume, a stylish Batmobile, and a reimagined Gotham City.
Jiménez explained that the upcoming phase of their work will feature a redesigned look, notably reintroducing Batman's classic blue suit. He emphasizes that this change is intended to feel familiar yet modern, building upon recent designs with subtle updates. Simultaneously, he's reimagining Gotham City's visual style, seeking a unique identity that distinguishes it from his past interpretations. His goal is to incorporate a touch of pop art influence, paying homage to older narratives while maintaining the dark and foreboding atmosphere characteristic of contemporary Batman stories.
According to Fraction, Batman's enduring popularity stems from his extraordinary adaptability. "He can be all kinds of things to all different people all at the same time — whether that’s in the comics or in animation or in movies," he stated, highlighting the character's ability to fit diverse interpretations.
Starting in September, Fraction, Jimenez, Morey, and Cowles will deliver a sequence of interconnected yet independent Batman tales. Each issue will present a fresh scenario, a unique visual approach, and a distinct creative hurdle for the team to overcome. Expect surprises and constant evolution in their storytelling. Further details on the September launch of Batman #1 will be announced soon.
After nearly a decade, and a continuous run since the 2016 “Rebirth” initiative, Batman is getting a new #1. This relaunch is a powerful reflection of his enduring legacy, the creative magnetism he possesses, and the timeless resonance of his war on crime. I’m genuinely pumped for this new beginning, and honestly, the new costume is pretty cool.